She was born May 3, 1920 in Pittsburgh, Pa., the daughter of James Hobson and Ida Mae (Robinson) Harper. She was a charter member of Holy Family Parish in Decatur, a long-time volunteer at St. Mary's Hospital, and a sorority member of Beta Sigma Phi. She married Charles Ross Wolford. He preceded her in death in 1966. She later married Frank Rice. He preceded her in death in 1999.

Surviving are her son, Father Wolford, pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Shelbyville, Assumption of the BVM Parish in Assumption and St. Francis De Sales Parish in Moweaqua; daughter, Marianne (Paul) Surprenant of Kankakee; step-daughters, Linda McLargin of Florida; Marcia Nuciforo of Wisconsin; Nancy Rice of Michigan; brothers, Robert Harper of Yountville, Calif.; Bill Harper of San Mateo, Calif.; 10 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands; three sons, John Patrick Michael Wolford, Charles Ross Wolford Jr., and Robert N. Wolford; one brother, Frank Harper; and one sister, Mary Ann McDermott.

The Mass of Christian Burial was held July 16 at Holy Family Church, with Father Wolford and Father Joe Molloy concelebrating. Burial was in Calvary Cemetery, Decatur.

Memorials are suggested to Holy Family Catholic Church or Hickory Point Christian Village.

Moran and Goebel Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Decatur, was in charge of arrangements.